Marcos Contreras of Falls Church Participates in Alternative Spring Break Trip

2015 Mar 24

Falls Church, VA resident Marcos Contreras spent spring break serving others through James Madison University's Alternative Spring Break Program. Contreras traveled to Bristol, Florida to volunteer with The Nature Conservancy.

The student-led ASB trips took place from March 7-14. Each trip focused on a social issue, such as homelessness, resettlement, environmentalism or community wellness, in a specific region. Almost 300 students embarked on 23 spring break trips around the country and world. The students spent the week living simply, focused on service in their destination community but also on teamwork and reflection within their group.

JMU students worked alongside The Nature Conservancy to help restore and preserve the natural habitats of Florida’s state parks. They assisted with planting imperiled wiregrass and longleaf pines, trail building and controlling invasive species and non-native plant species. For seven days they camped in Apalachicola Park, fully immersing themselves in nature and embracing the philosophies of simple living. 

For information about JMU's award winning Alternative Break Program, visit www.jmu.edu/abp.